1. Thank you very much for your time! Before we introduce your new release to our readers – what kind of drink would you recommend to sip on while they listen to your new music?
Hmm…I would say a lychee martini. It’s got that perfect blend of East meets West, fruity but girthy, 007 vibe. It’s two balls floating in water, what’s not to love?
2. Please give us an update about your new single „Gift of Loneliness“ and your upcoming album?
My latest single, “Gift of Loneliness,” just came out August 15! Along with a very fun video that I filmed with a few friends of mine, Grant Chang and Andrew Ge, some of the handsomest men I know—of course I had them face down the whole time :). It’s a very tongue-in-cheek idea, that once you embrace the loneliness (which we all feel), it gives you the gift of freedom.
It’s the third single from my upcoming album Sweetmouth, which I’m planning to release October 17.
3. We live in times of many conspiracy theories. Which, harmless theory would you wish were true? (For example Dinos living inside Earth or E.T. living in a home in California)
Did you ever hear about Melissa Vandella? I think it’s so bonkers that I wish it were true. Avril Lavigne being replaced by a body double since 2003…because why? It makes me laugh that people actually believe it.
4. What fashion style or brand would best describe your music?
Crop tops, high waists. I’ve been going to the flea market to find vintage pieces from the 70’s that actually complement the human form. They just don’t make quality like they did back then.
5. Tell us more about your songs! Topics! Message!?
The title Sweetmouth comes from a Mandarin phrase spoken as a compliment to little obedient kids, like “Oh, look at that mouth so sweet! They know just what to say to their elders.” These kids then grow up to be adults with the honed ability to please everyone but themselves.
I made this album to create space for us to process these very layered relationships – with our queerness, our parents, and our mixed cultures. It takes a lot of work and bravery to look that deep inside, but ultimately, what choice do we have? We pass on the trauma we do not heal, and ultimately we are responsible for our own happiness.
6. Beside music, do you have any special talents?
I wish! I could win at a staring contest (but I have to blink). Does that count? I absolutely overcommit to the bit and don’t really get uncomfortable with eye contact. Oh! Also, I can memorize names at a party very quickly— but nobody can change clothes or hats, and I will forget it within an hour. Nice party trick though!
7. Name 5 things we all should know about you as an artist?!
1. I’m gay, Asian, and American and I’m proud of it.
2. My background is in jazz/R&B, but I love a pop dance beat.
3. I sing about things that are difficult to talk about, and add a little humor on top of it, often sardonic. I truly believe that music can heal.
4. For me, songs are about story, more than what I can do with my voice.
5. I try to read and respond to all my online comments. I’m truly grateful to anyone who’s responding to my music!
8. The road so far…. who or what was your biggest support??
At this point in life, it’s my friends. They really freakin show up. I’m so lucky because as much as they’re rooting for my success, they’re just as happy with who I am as a person, without the artistry. That to me is most important.
For those of my friends who work in the industry, it’s even more valuable. They get how long the days can be, how lonely we can get, and how unglamorous the road actually is, when everyone else sees the final product.
9. A question you’d like to answer, but never been asked in an interview before?! + Answer pls
If you were chocolate what would you be?
Dark chocolate almond turtles. It’s bitter and sweet, crunchy with just a little buttery warmth. With a little bit of protein—it’s practically nutritious.
Instagram: @itskenton